Introduction To Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are gel substances that can be injected into the skin with the purpose of restoring lost volume, to soften and fill lines and folds, contour the cheeks and jawline and rejuvenate and augment the lips.

The dermal fillers used at Youth Lab contain a naturally occurring substance which is found within our skin and connective tissue. These gel fillers are biocompatible and as a result non allergenic and low risk when used as a filler agent.

Dermal fillers are very hydrophilic (they hold onto a lot of water) and although they break down over time when injected into the skin they are able to maintain their volume and shape due to their high water content. The longevity of dermal fillers varies.

As we age intrinsic factors such as loss of subcutaneous fat, change in the structure of bones, gravity and loss of elastin and collagen can result in deep lines, saggy skin and areas of hollowing over the face. This combined with external factors such as sun damage and dynamic wrinkles can further cause changes in the once full and supple face.

Dermal fillers can thus be used to restore this lost volume, contour the shape of the face and enhance facial features naturally.

Dermal fillers are very versatile and are used to treat a number of areas. These include but are not limited to:

Static superficial to deep lines around the face including nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Deeper injections to maintain the structure and support beneath these lines increases the longevity of the filler, as does the addition of wrinkle relaxing injections.

Restoration of lost volume in the cheeks and temples, relieving hollowness and loss of smooth contours.

The doctor’s at Youth Lab are committed to maintaining a natural appearance whilst maintaining facial harmony.

frequently asked questions

+ WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT INVOLVE?

Prior to any treatment with dermal fillers a full consultation is required. This will include full clinical photography, skin assessment and review with the doctor to assess your areas of concern, expectations and determine the need for any other complementary treatments. A tailored treatment plan will be devised with the aim to provide the best possible results and a natural harmonious look.

Treatment with dermal fillers often involves some discomfort. In the treatment of certain areas a numbing cream or a block of the supplying nerve with local anaesthetic is performed. All dermal filler injections are performed by our doctors who prefer to use dermal fillers that contain local anaesthetic which further reduces the discomfort.

The procedure takes around 30 minutes or longer if multiple areas are treated. This is to ensure an aesthetically pleasing result and accuracy of injection. The treatment itself involves the injection of the gel like fluid through small needles or cannulas into the areas of concern, with different techniques to disperse the filler in a smooth and uniform way.

The effect is immediate but some patients will notice increased swelling for 24-48hours so the true effect may not often be noticeable until then. It may take to 3-4 weeks for the dermal filler to stabilize and fully settle into the skin. A follow-up consultation at this time is recommended to assess the results and determine the next phase of treatment.

+ HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT LAST?

The dermal fillers used at Youth Lab generally last 6-18 months depending on the area treated and the amount used.

+ WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY TREATMENT?

Following treatment with dermal fillers normal activities can be resumed. You will provided with full aftercare instructions. There are some general precautions that should be taken to reduce the risks of side effects and to obtain the best possible results:

Ice/cool compress can be applied to reduce discomfort, swelling and bruising

Gentle massage to the area

Do not lie down immediately after, or do strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours

Dermal filler injections cannot be given to people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have taken a course of prescription acne medication in the last 3 months, have a history of autoimmune diseases or multiple allergies.

Our doctors will discuss all risks and contraindications prior to performing any procedure.